The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year. Good health habits may also help protect you against the flu. These resources will help you learn about steps you can take to protect yourself and others from flu and stop the spread of germs.

Stop spreading germs at home, school, and work:

► Cover up.
If possible, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, throw the tissue in the trash after you use it, and wash or sanitize your hands. (If a tissue is not available, sneeze into your elbow.)

► Sing your ABC’s.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze or you touch doors or handrails. Wash hands for 20 seconds, which is about the same time it takes to sing your ABC’s. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread that way.

► Wipe it down.
Computers and telephones used by more than one person should be periodically wiped down with an alcohol-based solution. Keep a stash of disposable wipes with you when you visit computer labs or other common areas on campus. ► Practice social distance.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Consider some "social distancing" like avoiding handshakes. Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing and shaking hands with infected people.

► Stay home.
If you get sick or someone you know is sick and you suspect you might be infected with the swine flu, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them. Stay home for at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever. If you need to miss class, call or email your instructors as soon as possible to discuss your options.